Oct 20 & 21 Public Archaeology at the Lyon Farm
We are asking community members to come out and join us in digging up some local history!
About the project: The Historic Preservation Division (HPD) is partnering with the Arabia Mountain Heritage Area Alliance, Inc. in a public archaeology project at the Lyon Farm in DeKalb County. Excavations are planned for October 20 and 21, 2012. Each day will have two shifts. The first will be from 9am — noon and the second will be from 1pm — 4pm.
Who can participate? These excavations are open to the public. No previous experience is necessary and the general public, amateur historians, and the descendants of the people who lived on the Lyon Farm are all welcome to participate. All participants will be trained on location to properly search for artifacts and all necessary equipment will be provided.
What is the Lyon Farm? The Lyon Farm was settled around 1800 by a Revolutionary War soldier on land that was originally part of the Creek Nation. It remained a self-sustaining farm throughout this time and was one of the four plantations that served as the cornerstones for the Flat Rock community.
What can we discover? As a working farm for generations, there is a high likelihood of finding interesting clues about past residents and early American lifestyles. Creek settlements were also reported in the area and there is a good chance of encountering Native American artifacts during the investigations.
Why is this important? A site, properly excavated, tells you about the people who lived there, what they believed, and how they organized their society. This is a rare opportunity for the public to become engaged with and involved in the interpretation and understanding of the past. This project could also have a lasting impact on our community’s values, sense of place, and the future preservation and management of our historical areas.
Ready to dig? If you are interested in participating in the excavations please email Ms. Rachel Black at the Historic Preservation Division to be added to the list. Please note, space is limited so sign up early. Rachel.Black@DNR.state.ga.us
Click here to learn more: Lyon Dig Information
Arabia Mountain
Dominated by two granite outcrops, the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area offers natural wonders, compelling history and heart-pumping activity. This nationally significant landscape includes vibrant history, breathtaking beauty and intriguing cultural changes from early settlers to immigrant rock cutters, Trappist monks and one of the oldest African-American communities in Georgia.
